What Is the Best Cell Phone for Seniors With Dementia?

The best cell phone for seniors with dementia is the Jitterbug Flip2, which features a simple design and large keypad buttons. Dementia may make it difficult for seniors to remember how to use complicated smartphones. However, the easy-to-use Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively includes an integrated medical alert system, the Lively Link app for caregivers and GPS tracking to find loved ones who may have wandered. The Flip2 offers enhanced audio, hearing aid connectivity and pre-installed games geared for mind-stimulating play. The phone is affordable at $99.99 and comes ready to use with a monthly service plan from Lively.

The Jitterbug Smart3 is also part of the Lively selection of medical alert cell phones but includes the functionality found in a smartphone, and the Link II with Consumer Cellular comes with senior-relevant features.

Why the Jitterbug Flip2 Is Our Top Pick for the Best Cell Phone for Seniors with Dementia

This compact flip phone is more durable than most smartphones, often made of glass, and provides caregivers GPS tracking without the phone needing an internet connection. Lively’s medical alert phone operators answer calls 24/7, providing assistance such as dispatching urgent medical assistance, helping to find a location and notifying family members of their loved one’s situation.

We also measured the benefits of our top pick compared to other cell phones for seniors with dementia, and here’s what we found:

For more information about this product, please read our full product review of the Jitterbug Flip2.

Other Cell Phones to Consider for Seniors with Dementia 

As mentioned, the Jitterbug Smart3 includes many essential features for seniors with dementia, but as a smartphone, it may be too complicated for some users. Still, seniors who are comfortable with technology may appreciate the advanced features.

The Jitterbug Smart3 is a full-featured cell phone for seniors who want more options

Although the Jitterbug Flip2 includes the essential services and options for seniors, including those with dementia, the Smart3 adds smartphone technology and capabilities. The home screen can be customized to only include shortcuts for necessary applications, and users have access to a vast selection of apps from the app store. The Smart3 includes an emergency response button on the bottom of the screen, and all shortcuts are aligned in rows as easy-to-navigate tiles.

To learn more, please read our full product review of the Jitterbug Smart3.

The Link II from Consumer Cellular offers senior-relevant features at a lower cost

While Lively’s Jitterbug Flip2 is our top pick, the monthly service plan is more expensive than Consumer Cellular’s monthly text, talk and data plan. The Link II offers senior-relevant features such as a programmable button allowing the user to speed-dial emergency contacts, enhanced audio and hearing aid compatibility, large keypad buttons and monthly discounts for AARP members.

To learn more, please read our full product review of the Link II from Consumer Cellular.